A lawmaker from Kwara State, Abdulraheem Olawuyi, has joined the race for the Speaker of the House of Representatives for the 10th National Assembly.
Olawuyi, who is representing Ekiti, Isin, Irepodun and Oke-ero Federal Constituency of Kwara State, will battle the top spot with the like of the incumbent Deputy Speaker, Ibrahim Wase, Benjamin Kalu, and Abubakar Yalleman, among others.
In a statement he personally issued to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Olawuyi stated that he would officially declare his intention to run for the speakership position on April 4 in Abuja.
The lawmaker said he has consulted widely on his intention to contest the position and expressed delight at the feedback.
Olawuyi, a third termer and ranking member in the House of Reps, said he believes he possesses the needed experience to make the office of the speaker better if elected by his colleagues.
Olawuyi said other lawmakers, serving and newly elected members of the House of Reps would be in attendance at his official declaration.
He said: “I assure you that, if elected, I will strive to promote policies that will benefit all Nigerians from various backgrounds and will work with all parties to unite the country.
I am genuinely looking forward to meeting fellow lawmakers, sharing my vision with them, and listening to their ideas on how to improve the lots of the people if elected as the speaker.